UNIT 1

Revisiting AI Project Cycle & Ethical Frameworks for AI

Problem Scoping- Set the goal for your AI project by stating the problem that you wish to solve
with it. Under problem scoping, we look at various parameters that affect the problem we wish to
solve so that the picture becomes clearer.

Data Acquisition - To acquire data that will become the base of your project as it will help you
understand what the parameters that are related to problem scoping . Data acquisition by collecting
data from various reliable and authentic sources. Since the data you collect would be in large
quantities, you can try to give it a visual image of different types of representations like graphs,
databases, flow charts, maps, etc. This makes it easier for you to interpret the patterns that your
acquired data follows.

Data Exploration - After exploring the patterns, you can decide upon the type of model you would
build to achieve the goal. For this, you can research online and select various models that give a
suitable output.

Evaluation and Modelling - You can test the selected models and figure out which is the most
efficient one. The most efficient model is now the base of your AI project and you can develop your
algorithm around it. Once the modeling is complete, you now need to test your model on some newly
fetched data. The results will help you in evaluating your model and improving it.

Deployment- This stage is crucial for ensuring the successful integration and operation of AI
solutions in real-world environments, enabling them to deliver value and impact to users and
stakeholders.

2. What is Statistical Data ? Explain with an example ?

Statistical Data is a domain of AI related to data systems and processes, in which the system collects
numerous data, maintains data sets and derives meaning/sense out of them. The information
extracted through statistical data can be used to make a decision about it.

Price Comparison Websites

These websites are being driven by lots and lots of data. If you have ever used these websites, you
would know, the convenience of comparing the price of a product from multiple vendors in one place.
PriceGrabber, PriceRunner, Junglee, Shopzilla, DealTime are some examples of price comparison
websites. Nowadays, price comparison websites can be found in almost every domain such as
technology, hospitality, automobiles, durables, apparel, etc.

3. Explain Computer Vision? What roles does computer vision play in agricultural monitoring
systems?

Computer Vision, abbreviated as CV, is a domain of AI that depicts the capability of a machine to get
and analyse visual information and afterwards predict some decisions about it. The entire process
involves image acquiring, screening, analysing, identifying and extracting information. In computer
vision, Input to machines can be photographs, videos and pictures from thermal or infrared sensors,
indicators and different sources.

Computer vision-related projects translate digital visual data into descriptions. This data is then
turned into computer-readable language to aid the decision-making process. The main objective of
this domain of AI is to teach machines to collect information from pixels.

Agricultural Monitoring System Computer vision is employed in agriculture for crop monitoring,
pest detection, and yield estimation. Drones with cameras capture aerial images of farmland, which
are then analysed to assess crop health and optimize farming practices.

4. What is Natural Language Processing? Explain any two real-life applications of NLP.

Natural Language Processing, abbreviated as NLP, is a branch of artificial intelligence that deals with
the interaction between computers and humans using the natural language. Natural language refers
to language that is spoken and written by people, and natural language processing (NLP) attempts to
extract information from the spoken and written word using algorithms. The ultimate objective of NLP
is to read, decipher, understand, and make sense of human languages in a valuable manner.

Email filters :Email filters are one of the most basic and initial applications of NLP online. It started
with spam filters, uncovering certain words or phrases that signal a spam message.

Machine Translation :NLP is used in machine translation systems like Google Translate and
Microsoft Translator to automatically translate text from one language to another. These systems
analyze the structure and semantics of sentences in the source language and generate equivalent
translations in the target language.

5. Explain the term Frame work?

Frameworks are a set of steps that help us in solving problems. It provides a step-by-step guide for
solving problems in an organized manner. They serve as a common language for communication and
collaboration, facilitating the sharing of best practices and promoting consistency in problem-
solving methodologies.

6.Define Ethical Frame work ?

Ethical frameworks are frameworks which help us ensure that the choices we make do not cause
unintended harm. Furthermore, ethical frameworks provide a systematic approach to navigating
complex moral dilemmas by considering various ethical principles and perspectives. By utilizing
ethical frameworks, individuals and organizations can make well- informed decisions that align with
their values and promote positive outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

7. What is the necessity for Ethical Frameworks in AI development?

AI is essentially being used as a decision-making/ influencing tool. As such we need to ensure that
AI makes morally acceptable recommendations Ethical frameworks ensure that AI makes morally
acceptable choices. If we use ethical frameworks while building our AI solutions, we can avoid
unintended outcomes, even before they take place.
8. Mention the factors which knowingly or unknowingly influence our decision-making?
• Value of humans Value of non-humans
• Intuition & Values -Does what I am thinking sound correct?
• Religion -Is the decision I am taking aligned with my religious views?

9. Explain different classifications of ethical frameworks?

1. Sector-based Frameworks:

These are frameworks tailored to specific sectors or industries. It addresses issues such as patient
privacy, data security, and the ethical use of AI in medical decision-making. Sector-based ethical
frameworks may also apply to domains such as finance, education, transportation, agriculture,
governance, and law enforcement.

2. Value-based Frameworks:

Value-based frameworks focus on fundamental ethical principles and values guiding decision-
making. It reflects the different moral philosophies that inform ethical reasoning. Value-based
frameworks are concerned with assessing the moral worth of actions and guiding ethical behaviour.
They can be further classified into three categories:

• Rights-based: Prioritizes the protection of human rights and dignity, valuing human life over
other considerations. It emphasizes the importance of respecting individual autonomy, dignity,
and freedom. In the context of AI, this could involve ensuring that AI systems do not violate
human rights or discriminate against certain groups.

• Utility-based: Evaluates actions based on the principle of maximizing utility or overall good,
aiming to achieve outcomes that offer the greatest benefit and minimize harm. It seeks to
maximize overall utility or benefit for the greatest number of people. In AI, this might involve
weighing the potential benefits of AI applications against the risks they pose to society, such as
job displacement or privacy concerns.

• Virtue-based: This framework focuses on the character and intentions of the individuals involved
in decision-making. It asks whether the actions of individuals or organizations align with virtuous
principles such as honesty, compassion, and integrity. In the context of AI, virtue ethics could
involve considering whether developers, users, and regulators uphold ethical values throughout
the AI lifecycle.

10. What do you mean by Bioethics?

Principles of bioethics:
• Respect for Autonomy.
• Do not harm.
• Ensure maximum benefit for all.
• Give justice.
11. Mention the key characteristics of sector-based frameworks.

These are frameworks tailored to specific sectors or industries. It addresses issues such as patient
privacy, data security, and the ethical use of AI in medical decision-making. Sector-based ethical
frameworks may also apply to domains such as finance, education, transportation, agriculture,
governance, and law enforcement.

12. How do value-based frameworks contribute to ethical decision-making by emphasizing

Value-based frameworks focus on fundamental ethical principles and values guiding decision-
making. It reflects the different moral philosophies that inform ethical reasoning. Value-based
frameworks are concerned with assessing the moral worth of actions and guiding ethical behaviour.

Case-Based Questions

1.Case Scenario:

In a corporate setting, a multinational company is facing scrutiny over its environmental practices,
particularly regarding the disposal of industrial waste. The company has historically prioritized profit
maximization and cost-cutting measures, leading to practices that result in environmental harm and
negative impacts on local communities. As public awareness and concern about environmental
sustainability grow, stakeholders, including investors, customers, and advocacy groups, are calling
for the company to adopt more responsible and sustainable business practices.

Question:

Drawing from the case presented, analyze the ethical considerations surrounding the
company's environmental practices through the lens of value-based frameworks in ethics.

Answer:

Ethical Analysis of the Company’s Environmental Practices

A multinational company faces scrutiny for its harmful waste disposal practices, driven by profit
maximization. As public concern grows, stakeholders demand sustainable reforms. This issue can
be analyzed using three ethical frameworks:

Rights-Based Ethics: The company’s actions violate the local community’s right to a clean and safe
environment. Ethical responsibility requires implementing sustainable waste management and
respecting human rights.

Utility-Based Ethics: While cost-cutting boosts short-term profits, environmental harm leads to
long-term societal and financial losses. Sustainable practices, such as eco-friendly technologies,
can balance profitability with social well-being.

Virtue-Based Ethics: The company’s past actions reflect a lack of ethical responsibility. To rebuild
trust, leadership must uphold virtues like integrity and sustainability, fostering a culture of corporate
responsibility.
Conclusion:

The company must shift from profit-driven motives to ethical, sustainable practices that protect
human rights, maximize societal benefits, and uphold corporate integrity.

2. Case Scenario:

In a rural farming community, a group of small-scale farmers is faced with a dilemma regarding the
use of pesticides on their crops. The farmers have traditionally relied on chemical pesticides to
control pests and maximize crop yields. However, concerns have been raised about the potential
environmental and health impacts of pesticide use, including soil contamination, water pollution,
and adverse effects on human health. Additionally, neighboring communities and environmental
advocacy groups have expressed opposition to the widespread use of pesticides, citing ecological
damage and risks to biodiversity.

Question:

Using the case provided, examine the ethical considerations surrounding pesticide use in the
agricultural sector, applying ethical frameworks to analyze the competing interests and values
at stake.

Answer

Ethical Analysis of Pesticide Use in a Rural Farming Community

The small-scale farmers face a dilemma: while pesticides help protect crops and ensure food
security, their use raises serious environmental and health concerns. Applying ethical frameworks
helps analyze the competing interests involved.

Rights-Based Ethics: This perspective emphasizes the rights of individuals to a safe environment
and good health. The use of pesticides, which may cause soil and water contamination, threatens
these rights, particularly for neighboring communities. Ethically, farmers should explore alternatives,
such as organic pest control, to uphold the rights of all stakeholders.

Utility-Based Ethics: This approach weighs the benefits and harms of pesticide use. While
pesticides boost crop yields and economic stability, long-term environmental degradation and
health risks may outweigh these short-term gains. Sustainable farming methods, like integrated pest
management, could minimize harm while maintaining productivity.

Virtue-Based Ethics: Farmers must consider virtues such as responsibility, stewardship, and
sustainability. Prioritizing short-term profits over long-term ecological health contradicts these
values. By adopting responsible farming practices, they can protect biodiversity and ensure ethical
land stewardship for future generations.

Conclusion:

The ethical approach calls for balancing food production with environmental and public health. By
transitioning to safer, more sustainable pest control methods, farmers can uphold ethical
responsibility while securing long-term agricultural success.